Books matching: plague
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- #1
Doomsday Book by Connie Willis is a time-travel science fiction novel that intertwines two timelines - one in the near future at Oxford University, where a historian named Kivrin is sent back to the Middle Ages, specifically to the year 1348 during the Black Death. Meanwhile, a contemporary viral outbreak adds a layer of complexity to the story, creating a sense of urgency and suspense. The book delves into themes of human resilience, historical accuracy, and the impact of catastrophic events on individuals across different time periods.
Mary shook her head. “All you’ve missed is Gilchrist’s speech.” She leaned back in her chair to let Dunworthy squeeze past her into the narrow observation area. She had taken off her coat and wool hat... - #2
The Decameron is a collection of 100 short stories told by ten young people who fled Florence to a country house to escape the Black Death. Each person tells a story every day for ten days, resulting in a hundred entertaining tales that cover various themes such as love, wit, practical jokes, and travel. The stories provide a glimpse into Medieval life, culture, and the impact of the pestilence during the late Middle Ages. Boccaccio's writing style is described as witty, satirical, and humorous, with clever narratives that are sometimes suspenseful and almost pornographic.
The book is a mix of bawdy and humorous stories that portray the lives of ordinary people during the plague, featuring themes like love in all its variations, from erotica to tragedy. The tales are entertaining, funny, and satirical, showcasing the sexual exploits of nobility and clergy, pranks and tricks between spouses and friends, and adventures abroad. Despite some stories being misogynistic or reflecting the time's cultural norms, the overall collection is seen as a window into the medieval world, offering insights into human nature and societal dynamics.
HERE BEGINNETH THE FIRST DAY OF THE DECAMERON WHEREIN (AFTER DEMONSTRATION MADE BY THE AUTHOR OF THE MANNER IN WHICH IT CAME TO PASS THAT THE PERSONS WHO ARE HEREINAFTER PRESENTED FOREGATHERED FOR THE... - #3
In 'Blindness' by Jose Saramago, an epidemic of blindness strikes suddenly, causing chaos and horror as human beings are put in extreme situations. The book explores the breakdown of society and the loss of practical abilities when faced with such a crisis. Saramago's unique writing style, with almost no punctuation and vivid, matter-of-fact language, adds to the fast-paced and gripping nature of the narrative, making it a traumatic and thought-provoking read.
The amber light came on. Two of the cars ahead accelerated before the red light appeared. At the pedestrian crossing the sign of a green man lit up. The people who were waiting began to cross the road... - #4
The Seventh Plague by James Rollins follows the Sigma Force team as they investigate a mysterious plague with connections to biblical occurrences, historical figures, and modern science. When archaeologist Professor Harold McCabe returns from the desert partially mummified, it sets off a chain of events that lead the team on a global adventure spanning from Africa to the Arctic, uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the world. The book weaves together elements of action, historical mysteries, and scientific discoveries, creating a fast-paced thriller filled with twists, turns, and apocalyptic scenarios.
James Rollins combines historical facts, scientific theories, and imaginative storytelling to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The book explores themes of ancient mysteries, modern pandemics, and the impact of human hubris, all while incorporating real-life figures like Nikola Tesla and Mark Twain into the plot. With a blend of adventure, suspense, and educational nuggets, The Seventh Plague offers a thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience for fans of action-packed novels.
As the coroner led them away, Derek glanced to his two companions, uncertain how they would handle these last steps of this grim journey. The older of the two women, Safia al-Maaz, stood a head taller...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sigma Force ) - #5
Transported back to the past and trapped in the Middle Ages, New York surgeon, Beatrice Trovato, navigates the arteries of Siena, Italy on the verge of the plague. A newly developed empathic power gives her more information than she knows what to do with, forcing her to seek answers beyond her normal world of intellect and science. The Scribe of Siena weaves time travel, suspense, history, political intrigue, murder, and romance into a captivating story that explores identity, belonging, and the transcendence of love across time and space.
The problem with being a neurosurgeon is that when the telephone rings, you have to answer it. When the phone by my bed went off at 3:00 a.m. I went straight from sleep to standing. The emergency room... - #6Viviaby:
"Vivia" by Tanith Lee is a dark and enthralling tale of a young woman named Vivia who is transformed into a vampire after encountering an ancient being in hidden underground caverns. The story follows Vivia's journey as she navigates through a medieval world filled with cruelty, magic, and self-discovery. The narrative unfolds with unique twists and turns, keeping the readers fascinated till the very end, despite the protagonist's unlikable and passive nature. Tanith Lee's writing style in "Vivia" is described as compelling, evocative, and beautifully written, showcasing her skill in crafting horror fantasy adventures that delve deep into the psyche of the characters.
- #7
Yellow Jessamine is a horror novella by Caitlin Starling that follows the story of Evelyn, an incredibly wealthy shipping magnate, as she watches her city crumble under a strange plague. The book is described as having sapphic undertones and an atmospheric writing style that creates palpable tension and paranoia. Readers are drawn into the mystery of Evelyn's backstory, her skills with plants and poisons, and the dark and moody setting reminiscent of a Victorian or Regency era.
Despite being a novella, Yellow Jessamine is praised for its complex characters, particularly Evelyn and Violetta, and the atmospheric and gothic horror elements that keep readers engaged. The book is noted for its slow but deliberate pacing, which sets up important details about the politics of the town, Evelyn's past, and the eventual reveal of the Big Bad, all while maintaining a touch of fantastical paranormal elements.
- #8
Blood Music by Greg Bear is a novel that delves into the consequences of a scientist's experiment gone wrong, where intelligent organisms based on his own DNA are released into the world, leading to a catastrophic chain of events. The story follows different characters affected by the spread of these organisms, showcasing the impact on humanity as a whole. The book combines elements of bioengineering, nanotechnology, and apocalyptic themes, creating a narrative that explores the transformation of human bodies by intelligent cells.
The rectangular slate-black sign stood on a low mound of bright green and clumpy Korean grass, surrounded by irises and sided by a dark, cement-bedded brook filled with koi. Carved into the street sid... - #9
'Cathedral of the Sea' by Ildefonso Falcones is a historical novel set in 14th-century Barcelona during the construction of the Santa Maria del Mar cathedral. The story follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, a peasant freeman tradesman, as he navigates through the horrors of war, plague, and the Inquisition. The narrative covers various historical events and social classes, providing a vivid depiction of medieval Barcelona.
The writing style of the book is engaging and well-researched, offering readers an immersive experience into the life and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around Arnau's journey from a humble beginning to significant wealth, intertwined with the challenges of the time period, such as feudal laws, religious authorities, and societal norms. While drawing comparisons to 'Pillars of the Earth,' the book stands out for its detailed descriptions of medieval Barcelona and its characters' compelling story arcs.
BERNAT REALIZED NOBODY was looking in his direction, and glanced up at the clear blue sky. The weak late September sun played on the faces of his guests. He had put so much time and effort into prepar... Legend, a dystopian novel by Marie Lu, is set in a futuristic Los Angeles where the United States has transformed into the Republic and is at war with neighboring Colonies. The story follows two teenagers, June and Day, from opposite backgrounds who cross paths under dramatic circumstances. June, a prodigy from the Republic's elite, seeks revenge for her brother's murder, which leads her to Day, a notorious criminal from the slums. As they uncover secrets about each other and the government they live under, they are caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. The alternating chapters between Day and June provide a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged from the start.
The book is filled with action, adventure, romance, and intrigue, making it a page-turner that keeps readers on edge. The plot is centered around the intertwined lives of June and Day, revealing their struggles, secrets, and the sinister truths of the world they inhabit. Marie Lu's writing style creates a vivid and immersive world, with well-developed characters and a storyline that blends elements of forbidden love, dystopian society, and government conspiracies.
At least twice a month, I see my Wanted poster flashed on the JumboTrons scattered throughout downtown Los Angeles. It looks out of place up there. Most of the pictures on the screens are of happy thi...